Ascent Trip Report

1st ADK peak! Our ascent of Cascade Mountain was the result of a spontaneous weekend trip to Lake Placid, NY on Memorial Day Weekend 2012. We met Scott’s sister Jessica and brother-in-law Bob at the parking area on Route 73 around 8:00 am. Despite it being a holiday weekend (Memorial Day), there were very few people on the trail during ascent. Bugs, however were in abundance and we quickly found ourselves applying bug spray/wipes. The Cascade trail was well maintained and marked with markers, trail blazes and cairns. Stone staircases provide for an easier ascent and the climb is steady but not uncomfortable. There are plenty of places to “pull off to the side” and rest along the way if needed. A good view can be found at 1.8 miles in, leading you to wonder if you had already reached the summit. However, if you continue to hike further, past numerous cairns you will find the actual summit. A benchmark/marker is present on the summit. The summit of Cascade is bald or clear/open and offers plenty of area to spread out and take in a 360 degree view of the area/other peaks. While on the summit we took our time to take in the views, capture some photos, refuel with snacks, and debate what our afternoon lunch/restaurant of choice would be- burgers and beers! Not long into our descent Scott and Bob decided trail running was in their future and quickly left myself and Jess to descend slowly and safely! On descent the trail became slightly more crowded with several more hikers working to make their ascent at this point. Overall Cascade was a great 1st High Peak, leaving us yearning for more and a quick return to climb Porter Mountain the following day. Weather: Sunny/calm and clear.

Highlights: good view 1.8 miles in, finding the benchmark and signing "out" of the registration book!